The Raiders are in luck because there is no shortage of pass-rushers in the 2013 NFL draft. Whether the Raiders trade down for more draft picks or keep their selection, there is likely to be a good pass-rusher available. One of the best in the class is LSU defensive end Barkevious Mingo.
Only one team had fewer sacks in 2012 than the Raiders. It’s pretty clear that the Raiders need a pass-rusher, but not all pass-rushers are the same. Some pass-rushers have a quick first step and know how to use their hands and body to slip past their block, and others rely on their speed and bend to get around blockers.
When considering what kind of pass-rusher to draft, you have to consider what can and can't be taught. Jason Pierre-Paul was a very raw prospect and made it to the NFL and blossomed. Mingo has an abundance of traits that can’t be taught, which makes him a very attractive college prospect.
The one thing that coaches will love about Mingo is that his motor runs nonstop. Mingo is always flying to the ball and he’s making an impact on every play. The new regime is trying to change the culture in Oakland, but the coaches can only do so much. The players have to set that example, and Mingo is that kind of player.
Mingo’s athleticism really stands out, and Texas A&M right tackle Jake Matthews even had trouble slowing him down. Matthews is considered one of the better tackles in college football. The greatest test of any pass-rusher is going against an elite tackle and a mobile quarterback, and that’s just what happened when LSU played Texas A&M in 2012.
One of Mingo’s best moves is ...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Oakland Raiders
